By changing yourself, you change the equation (pg. x).
This is the first and most daunting challenge for any therapist: to help a person begin to focus on herself. It's ironic, considering that many people label therapy as a selfish practice. The reality is that there's rarely enough self in it. So many people come through the door ready to complain about their partner, their parents, or their boss. They don't see how focusing their attention outward contributes to their anxiety. Therefore, the first step in calming down is simply to begin to think about yourself (pg. 4).
Humans are relationship creatures. We're not meant to exist in the world alone. We really need each other. And that's great! But we're also individuals. We climb mountains and write novels and cure diseases. We have goals and interests that are just about us. Less anxious love is a balance between these two great forces--individuality and togetherness. Partners must work and play together but also respect the individual in each other (pg. 89).
No comments:
Post a Comment